Topper Industrial is asked daily how carts can present the parts better for the operators on the line. One solution is the tilt cart because if the parts allow a 30, 45, 60 or even 75-degree tilt ensuring the operator is always picking in the optimal ergonomic zone.
Topper Industrial engineers many different types of tilt carts. Tilt carts create a safe, controlled, and ergonomic delivery workstation line-side. A tilt cart is a rugged industrial cart consisting of a unique upper frame that is designed to fit a specific container and tilt to a desired angle. Topper Industrial’s tilt carts come equipped with a patented adjustable closed loop hydraulic cylinders that control the energy of the load as it is tilted. It provides for a safe and controlled tilt movement in a full to empty application. The most common requested degree of tilt is 30, 45, and 60 degrees, but the carts can be custom designed to virtually any angle. Tilt carts are designed as four-wheel or six-wheel carts. Topper Industrial also manufacturers unique side tilt carts.
Another cart that improves line-side deliver is a rotate cart. Topper Industrial uses a HD Bearing for easy and stable rotation for the operator (with an auto locking system that can lock the top every 90 or 180 degrees). This is a great option if the operator has an overhead lift assist that they are also coming back to pick the part in/near the same location every time.
Careful analysis and a few small modifications yield significant ergonomic improvements for assembly processes at manufacturing operations. Workplace injuries are not relegated to heavy machinery or falling objects. For assemblers, work-related repetitive motions are a common source of serious disorders, such as tendonitis or bursitis. Last year alone, there were more than 40,000 repetitive motion injuries in the United States.
Repetitive motion disorders (RMDs) are a family of musculoskeletal conditions that result from repeated motions performed during normal work. If assemblers repeat the same motions frequently and for prolonged periods of time, fatigue, and muscle-tendon strain can accumulate, resulting in RMDs. The effects of repetitive motions increase when unnatural or awkward postures and forceful exertions are involved.
The most common RMDs include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, trigger finger, and aggravation of pre-existing conditions, such as arthritis. These disorders are characterized by pain, tingling, numbness, swelling, or redness of the affected area, and the loss of flexibility and strength. For some individuals, there may be no visible sign of injury, although they may find it hard to perform easy tasks. Over time, RMDs can cause temporary or permanent damage to the muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments, as well as compression of nerves or tissue.
RMDs and other musculoskeletal disorders are among the most prevalent lost-time injuries and illnesses in almost every industry. They are costly. Employees affected by RMDs face long-term health issues. If surgery is required, they may even face a disability. Employers must then deal with reduced worker productivity, days away from work, worker compensation claims, and increased insurance premiums.
Manufacturing managers protect employees’ health by using carts that support both an ergonomic workplace and increase productivity. Improving safety, ergonomics, and throughput for assembly, integration, testing, finishing, and transportation operations are proven solutions for ergonomic rotation and consider safety factors backed by engineering stress and stability analyses. Topper Industrial supports customers in industries across North America, including aerospace, automotive, and agricultural machinery.
About Topper Industrial
For more than twenty years, Topper Industrial, (www.topperindustrial.com) based just outside of Milwaukee, WI, has been a leader in the material handling equipment industry. The company’s product roster features industrial carts, conveyors, lifts, lifts & tilts, shipping racks, containers, casters, and cart components. From mother-daughter carts to quad steer carts to tilt carts and rotate carts, Topper’s material handling solutions make delivering material line side more effective through more efficient practices. Topper Industrial has a team of experienced professional experts able to assess and provide the right product for all material handling equipment requirements.
Topper Industrial is a proud member of MHI. Follow on Twitter @TopperInd or on LinkedIn.